An appellate court may acquit where the evidence does not prove guilt

The Supreme Court examined the record and witness testimony. It found the appellant’s involvement in the crime proper unestablished. The High Court judgment was set aside insofar as he was concerned. The criminal appeal was allowed. The appellant was acquitted of the alleged offence. If in custody, he was directed to be released forthwith. The ruling was expressly limited to his evidentiary position. The evidence concerning the other accused was left untouched. Jaswinder Singh @ Shinder Singh v. State of Punjab | 2026 INSC 23